For
publication - photo available upon request
Entertron offers
embedded control to replace relays, timers and counters
for appliance industry.
Gasport, NY -
April 18 2001 - Entertron Industries, Inc. the
innovation leader in programmable logic controller
solutions introduces the Econo-PLC embedded programmable
logic controller (ePLC), to the appliance industry as a
basic, simple and cost effective replacement for relays,
timers and counters.
The Econo-PLC is a
small board level controller that starts at 6 digital
inputs (DC) for devices such as limit switches, proximity
sensors, push buttons and temperature switches; 6 relay
outputs (DC or AC) for devices such as solenoids, lights,
pumps and small motors. The system runs on either 12 VDC
or 24 VDC power.
The Econo-PLC is a
microprocessor based control that is programmable.
Through Entertron's programming software, 24 registers
can be configured as either timers or counters. For
simple or complex logic requirements, 149 internal relays
are included. The program is retained in an EPROM, that
is socketed. This is advantageous for offering the
customer upgrades or selling options that may be
installed later.
Other features found
in the Econo-PLC include pluggable terminal blocks for
easy installation and replacement...one time wiring; LED
indicators for the inputs and outputs; watchdog
protection with LED indicator for monitoring the
controller. The LED indicators are ideal for
troubleshooting.
The Econo-PLC is ideal
for repetitive applications, as well as applications that
require versatility and flexibility. The versatility and
flexibility lies in the programmability. The same
hardware can be used for different applications,
requiring different devices or functions by simply
creating a different program. This controller is
expandable to 12 digital inputs / 12 relay outputs.
When people think
embedded controllers, they think custom boards. Custom
designed boards are usually designed for one application
with specific requirements. When most companies take this
approach, it is usually a decision determined by cost. In
the long run companies will spend more on research and
development designing for a specific requirement, thus
having to develop more controls, rather than starting
with a product that offers flexibility and expandability
to begin with. The Econo-PLC, is an off the shelf
solution from Entertron Industries that can grow with a
company's changing requirements. The biggest plus is the
amount of time and money that will be saved up front when
designing a system, because the only thing required is a
program to make the controller function within their
application parameters. The hardware and operating
system have already been developed.
Once the customer has
developed their program for the application, Entertron
can save additional time, offering a service that
provides the customer with the controller already
programmed. Thus all that is left to do is wire the
controller.
Other controllers are
available from Entertron with serial communications
capabilities (interface to computer or display) and
analog capabilities (pressure, temperature, speed).
A development package
using the Smart-PAK is available. This includes software
and a programming cable.
Pricing for the
Econo-PLC at 1,000 pieces is $75; 10,000 pieces is $60
About Entertron:
Entertron Industries
is an American manufacturer of embedded programmable
logic controllers and operator interfaces since 1978.
Solutions have been successfully deployed in various
industries ranging from mobile applications requiring 12
VDC power (car crushers, radio frequency remote controls,
parade floats); 24 VAC applications (car washes and HVAC)
to your more traditional applications for PLCs (dock
levelers, elevators, packaging equipment).
Contact:
Stephen Luft
Entertron Industries, Inc.
Phone: (716) 772-7216
E-Mail: plcs@entertron.com
Web: www.entertron.com
|
